International Travel

Danielle McCarthy

New $4200 rule for Aussie flyers

Travellers acting suspiciously in Australian airports will have to show identification to police under draft laws introduced to federal Parliament.

Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton said the new identification rule will allow Australian Federal Police to make someone leave the airport or ban them from flying for 24 hours if they pose a security threat.

Police will have the authority to “move on” those who refuse to show their ID to police.

Mr Dutton said police powers at airports need to be increased as they are one of the greatest targets for terrorism and crime groups.

“Police at our airports are highly trained in behavioural analysis and threat assessments,” he said.

“However, they don’t currently have the power to check ID unless they can link behaviour to a specific offence.”

He explained that suspicious activity could include taking photos or videos of security check areas.

Mr Dutton also revealed that the increased powers will allow police to remove bikie gang members from airports for two hours if it is known that an incoming flight has rival gang members.

The minister said the legislation would ensure greater safety at Australian airports, adding that travellers could receive a fine of up to $4200 if they do not comply with the check.

Police will have to identify themselves before conducting ID checks.

Police will be able to use the new powers at major Australian airports including Sydney, Sydney West, Melbourne Tullamarine, Brisbane, Perth, Gold Coast, Hobart, Launceston, Alice Springs, Canberra, Darwin and Townsville.

The increased police powers follow a string of new rules being implemented across Australian airports.

Earlier this year it was announced that passengers will have to remove their glasses in new passport photos taken from July 1.

“Research has shown that glasses adversely affect passport facial matching. Matching is more accurate without glasses,” the department said.

“A limited exemption for medical reasons may apply where supported by a medical certificate.”

From June 30, the government also enforced new limits on how much powder product can be packed in carry-on baggage on international flights.

Powders must be presented separately at airport security and inorganic powders must not exceed 350g.